News August 16, 2018

Parliamentary inquiry into Aussie music industry to see how local talent can “better compete with overseas artists”

Senior Journalist, B2B

The House of Representatives standing committee on communications and the arts has begun an inquiry into the Australian music industry.

It is chaired by Liberal MP Luke Howarth who represents Petrie in Queensland, and is looking for input from the music industry.

Howarth said that the committee will examine the potential for continued growth and the factors affecting the success of the Australian music industry, both domestically and internationally.

“Australian music is loved at home and around the world for its creative talent and innovation,” he said.

“The committee wants to hear how Australian composers, songwriters, performers, and producers can expand their reach and better compete with overseas artists.

“We also want to hear from investors, music companies, record labels, cultural organisations, festivals and other businesses that connect Australian musicians and music with audiences and markets.”

ARIA figures for 2017 showed that the local industry had the biggest year of growth in 20 years.

The digital revolution has seen more labels, especially independent ones, sell more product outside their home territory

But record label executives estimate that the strike rate of Australian music released abroad is approximately a lowly 20%.

The cost of travelling abroad is seen as an issue, while the need for greater presence of Australian music in streaming services’ playlists is another.

Howarth added, ‘The music industry must be dynamic to adapt to the rapidly evolving ways we access and listen to music.

“As a committee, we believe that Australian music can be more competitive, and we will be investigating ways the Australian music industry can continue to grow sustainably.”

The inquiry’s terms of reference are: factors contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Australian music industry.